Controversy Over Political Iconography in Kerala

The recent actions of Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar have sparked a significant conflict with the state government. His use of contentious political symbols has disrupted the initial harmony he experienced during his early tenure.

Protests by State Ministers

• The protests were against a portrait of Bharat Mata with a saffron flag and a map of Akhand Bharat.

Origins of the Mother India Motif

• The motif traces back to the late 19th-century novel Anandamath by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.
• Abanindranath Tagore's early 20th-century depiction showed Bharat Mata with symbolic items like a book and beads.

Symbolism and Cultural Impact

• Mother India is personified as a divine custodian of tradition, often drawing from Hindu iconography.
• Various portrayals have altered her flag between the tricolour and saffron, illustrating diverse political agendas.
• Films like Mother India and Devi have influenced public perception, highlighting different narratives.

Secular and Nationalist Portrayals

• Religious nationalists have used the imagery to promote a united Hindu Rashtra.
• Secular artists like M.F. Husain also engaged with the concept, cementing its place in the collective consciousness.

Conclusion

Given the varied interpretations of Mother India, the controversy regarding its depiction was avoidable. Governors should refrain from using a Hindu majoritarian perspective of this complex symbol to avoid political conflicts.